100 hotels: Europe

Across the channel to Europe, where we've Ottoman mansions, champagne terraces, staggering vistas and the rest...

15. Hotel Viura, Rioja
Who knows which maverick mayor sanctioned building this bizarre,
super-modern and multi-cubed wonder in a 16th-century village in the
Sierra de Cantabria mountains? Still, it’s strangely beautiful, its jagged
structure mimicking the hills that rise behind it. And, as you sip something
off the gigantic wine list while gazing across terracotta rooftops from the
bar terrace, it all makes perfect sense. There are floor-to-ceiling views
from the rooms, too. Doubles from £125, B&B (00 34 945 609000, www.hotelviura.com).

16. Tiara Yaktsa, Cannes
Pure Côte d’Azur fabulousness, from the floaty white day-beds strewn around
the lawns to the Michelin-starred restaurant, and the pool with its
knock-out view of wooded hills tumbling down to the Med. Rooms come
festooned with white drapes and silk cushions. Pack a separate bag if you
plan to take home the huge range of Hermès bathroom goodies. Doubles from
£182, room only